6 Reasons Why You Should Include Games in ESL Teaching

Every ESL teacher knows that teaching English as a second language can be as challenging as it is rewarding. The struggle to keep your students engaged while making sure they're absorbing all that tricky grammar and vocabulary is real.

But have you ever tried using interactive games? If not, let's talk about why you absolutely should and the benefits you'll get.

The power of play in learning

Remember when you were a kid, and learning something new felt like a game? You probably didn't even realize you were learning because you were too busy having fun. The same principle applies to teaching English. A 2024 classroom study found that students who learned English grammar through educational games improved significantly more than those taught through traditional methods.

Games provide a break from traditional (and, let's be honest, sometimes dull) rote memorization and repetition methods. They introduce an element of excitement, competition, and collaboration that transforms the learning environment from a mundane room into a hub of activity. For ESL learners, especially teens and adults, this shift can be the difference between tuning out and fully immersing themselves in the learning process.

1. Making the language stick

One thing is obvious, but we'd better mention it: games are way more than just fun; they are a tool for using the language in a context that feels natural. When students engage in a game, they often use English to communicate, problem-solve, and express themselves without even realizing it. This active use of language in a social context is crucial for retention.

Take, for example, our lesson plan “Who Am I?”. It is based on a guessing game where students ask questions to figure out a secret identity. Sounds fun, right? But it's also a way of getting them to practice asking questions, using descriptive language, and listening actively, all key skills in mastering English. The context of the game makes the learning process feel organic, which is exactly what you want to achieve as a teacher.

2. More interaction = greater confidence

One of the biggest hurdles for ESL students, especially adults, is the fear of making mistakes. While mistakes are a natural part of learning, they can be a huge barrier if students are too nervous to speak up. Here's where interactive games come to the rescue. In the context of a game, the pressure is off. Mistakes become a natural part of play, rather than something to be avoided at all costs.

For instance, the “These Worries” lesson plan uses a board game format where students discuss things that stress them out. It's a relaxed, informal way of practicing conversation skills, and because it's set up as a game, students are more likely to participate without the fear of being judged.

3. Socialize, socialize, socialize

Another benefit of using games in the ESL classroom is the opportunity for social interaction. Language is, after all, a social tool. The more students interact, the better they get at using English in real-world situations. Interactive games often require students to work together in pairs or groups, naturally boosting their communication skills.

This cooperative learning setting mirrors real-life social situations, where language is used to negotiate, collaborate, and resolve conflicts. Whether it's through a competitive team game or a collaborative puzzle, students learn to use English not just to get the right answer but to achieve a shared goal. The social nature of games means that students are more likely to engage in authentic conversations, giving them practical language experience that's hard to replicate through traditional methods.

4. Attention, please

Let's face it: keeping the attention of teenagers and adults in a classroom setting can be a Herculean task. But add a game into the mix, and suddenly, you've got their attention. Games are a dynamic way to break up the monotony of a lesson and re-energize your students. They serve as a reset button, bringing a fresh burst of energy into the room.

Even the most diligent students can struggle to maintain focus during a long grammar lecture or vocabulary drill. But when you switch things up with a game, you tap into their natural love for play, which keeps them ready to learn.

5. Flexibility is the new black

One of the greatest things about incorporating games into your ESL teaching is the flexibility they offer. You can customize games to fit whatever learning goals you have for your students. Need to practice past tense verbs? There's a game for that. Want to focus on pronunciation? Yep, there's a game for that too.

Take a look at the “Who Am I?” lesson, which can be adapted to focus on different vocabulary themes, such as professions, animals, or even famous landmarks. By tailoring the game's content to match your curriculum, you ensure your students get targeted practice in the areas where they need it most.

If you want a game ready for every week, 14 ready-to-play games is our pack of games on Miro, with teacher tips for each one.

6. Positive vibes only

A classroom that feels tense, boring, or overly serious isn't conducive to learning. On the other hand, an environment where students feel relaxed, happy, and eager to participate is probably a breeding ground for success.

Games naturally bring a sense of joy and excitement into the classroom. They break down barriers between students, encourage laughter, and make the learning process something to look forward to rather than dread. When students are having fun, they're more likely to participate, take risks, and ultimately, learn more effectively.

Final thoughts